Chris Hemsworth's favourite places in Australia

Why did you move to Byron Bay from LA?

‘There were parts of LA living that I loved – but me and my wife (Spanish-born model and Fast and Furious actress Elsa Pataky) just felt it was right for the family that we moved back to Australia. The locals in Byron treat us just like locals. It’s more relaxed than LA, less intense, and just more conducive to raising our three children.’

Describe a perfect day in Byron Bay

Cows at The Farm at Byron Bay, Australia

‘First stop would be the beach for some surfing, as early as possible. Growing up near the beach is such an amazing opportunity for the kids, and I want to make the most of it. Then we would head to The Farm, which is such an amazing community concept: you can interact with the animals and eat some fresh produce. In the evening, we would barbecue fresh fish that we’d caught ourselves that afternoon.’

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‘It can’t be a coincidence that Melbourne is consistently voted the world’s most liveable city. The beaches, the culture, the people, the weather, the restaurants and nightlife all help make a wonderful city where I loved growing up.’

Mornington Peninsula: Melbourne's weekend playground

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What are your favourite hangouts in Melbourne?

Food at Matcha Mylkbar, Melbourne

‘If you want to be close to the centre, the Southbank district; if you like the beach then St Kilda. Fitzroy is for the cool kids. There’s a place called Matcha Mylkbar in St Kilda that our family loves for the plant-based food. I’m not a vegan – but what they can create using just plants is so innovative. For a drink, head for Flinders Lane: it’s probably the best street for bar-hopping in the country. Every night of the week is like Saturday night there.’

What’s your favourite childhood holiday memory?

‘The beaches I grew up on – not just for the surfing but for the exploring as well. We are so spoilt in Australia but my favourite beach might have to be Cape Woolamai on Victoria’s Phillip Island for the surfing. And Julian Rocks in Byron Bay for diving, as the sea life is just incredible.’

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Where’s your favourite holiday spot?

One & Only resort, Hayman Island

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‘Probably Hayman Island: we stayed at the One&Only there which had so much going on. The diving on the Great Barrier Reef is like being on another planet – and they have some of the whitest beaches and clearest water in the country.’

The Great Barrier Reef

Have you ever travelled to the Northern Territory?

The Olgas, Australia

Alistair-Taylor-Young

‘Seeing Uluru for the first time was one of my most wow Australian experiences. Speaking with the indigenous people and learning about its cultural importance was fascinating. I remember running around the base of the rock and finding these little caves to explore.’

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Where is the ultimate Australian date?

Whitehaven Beach, Australia

Rex Features

‘Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays is only accessible by boat or seaplane – but we got a helicopter there and were dropped on this beautiful beach with a bottle of Champagne and a picnic basket. That’s probably as romantic as it gets.’

Have you shot any films in Australia?

‘We filmed Thor 3 on the Gold Coast. I asked Marvel if we could – and I was amazed when they came back and said “Let’s do it”.’